By Mark Heys
July 26 2006

Idan Tal

Born: Petah Tikva, Israel, 13th September 1975

International Honours: Israel Full Caps

Position: Midfielder

Squad Number:

Former Clubs: Hapoel Jerusalem (Israel), Maccabi Petah Tikva (Israel), Hapoel Tel Aviv (Israel), Merida (Spain), Maccabi Petah Tikva (Israel), Everton, Rayo Vallecano (Spain), Maccabi Haifa (Israel)

This experienced and versatile midfielder is hoping to make an impression in English football after signing for Bolton from the Israeli champions Maccabi Haifa in June 2006.

Tal had previously spent two years on the books of the Wanderers Premiership rivals Everton but his time at Goodison Park was blighted by injury problems and permit wrangles.

The Toffees mainly utilised the Israeli international on the left of the midfield and this ultimately lead to comparisons with former Everton favourite Pat Nevin.

David Moyes arrival as the new Blues manager in 2002 meant that it was the beginning of the end for the skilfull Tal and he was offloaded to Spanish side Rayo Vallecano.

His time in Spain was brief as he made just six appearances in a Vallecano side that finished bottom of La Liga and was subsequently relegated from Spain's top league.

The resurrection of his career came back in his homeland with Maccabi Haifa whom he joined in 2003. His confidence and zest for football returned and he became a key part of the Maccabi team to lift successive Israeli league titles.

In the 2004-2005 season he recorded his best ever form in front of goal when scoring thirteen goals from midfield and the following season he brought his time with Maccabi to a successful close as he helped them to attain a sixth successive league championship

His move to the Reebok Stadium sees him link up with fellow countryman and good friend Tal Ben-Haim, a player who has proved to be a successful capture by the Trotters during his two years in England.

Many are hoping that Idan Tal will follow his lead.

Season 2006-2007 saw him fail to establish himself in a starting role for the Trotters as he appeared in just four games from the start including a 2-2 draw against the then Premiership holders Chelsea at Stamford Bridge and former club Everton in November.

His only goal of the season came in a 4-0 FA Cup rout over Doncaster Rovers at the newly built Keepmoat Stadium.

BOLTON RECORD: 16 appearances, 0 goals